Panakam is a delightful and refreshing traditional Indian drink that is especially popular in South India. Made from jaggery, lemon juice, and an array of spices, this sweet beverage is known for its unique flavors and cooling properties.
It is often prepared during festivals like Sri Rama Navami and other special occasions. Panakam is easy to make and is packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a quick refreshment on a hot day.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a simple Panakam recipe that you can easily prepare at home. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a traditional drink or explore new flavors, this Panakam recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- Jaggery: 1/2 cup (grated)
- Water: 4 cups (cold or room temperature)
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
- Cardamom Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black Pepper Powder: 1/4 teaspoon
- Ginger Powder: 1/2 teaspoon (or freshly grated ginger)
- A pinch of salt: Optional, for balancing the sweetness.
Instructions:
Dissolve Jaggery: In a large bowl or jug, add the grated jaggery. Pour the water over the jaggery and stir until the jaggery dissolves completely. You can also use warm water to dissolve the jaggery faster.
Add Lemon Juice: Once the jaggery has dissolved, add the lemon juice and mix well.
Add Spices: Add the cardamom powder, black pepper powder, ginger powder (or freshly grated ginger), and a pinch of salt if using. Mix well to combine.
Chill: If you prefer your Panakam chilled, place it in the refrigerator for about an hour.
Serve: Serve the Panakam in glasses with ice cubes if desired. Garnish with a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint for a refreshing touch.
Enjoy your refreshing and traditional Panakam! Let me know if you need any more recipes or any other assistance.
Conclusion
Panakam is a versatile and delicious drink that offers a blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. It is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re celebrating a festival or just looking for a refreshing drink,
Panakam is a perfect choice. Give this traditional Indian beverage a try, and you might just find yourself reaching for it again and again. Enjoy the taste of South India with this delightful Panakam recipe!
FAQs
- Can I use other sweeteners besides jaggery in Panakam? Yes, you can substitute jaggery with other natural sweeteners like brown sugar or honey, but the traditional recipe uses jaggery for its rich flavor and nutrients.
- Is Panakam suitable for people with dietary restrictions? Panakam is generally suitable for vegetarians and those on gluten-free diets. However, individuals with specific dietary concerns should check the ingredients and modify the recipe as needed.